17 www.SmallFarmCanada.ca 16 June 2026 BCRC WATER MANAGEMENT MANAGING H2O FOR CATTLE AND MORE ARTICLE BY BEEF CATTLE RESEARCH COUNCIL Cattle need high-quality water to maintain health, growth, lactation and reproduction. Water quality testing allows for the detection and management of issues before they negatively impact herd performance. Compounds in water can interact, sometimes Water quality is influenced by multiple factors, including the type of rock or soil the water passes through, precipitation levels, groundwater, runoff, evaporation, and adjacent land use. Handheld water meters can provide quick, on-site testing for conductivity and total dissolved solids (TDS). However, laboratory analysis remains the most reliable method for accurately measuring conductivity, TDS, and dissolved minerals such as sulphates. enhancing the effects of one another. Cattle of different ages or stages of production— such as calves, adults, pregnant, or lactating animals—may react differently to the same amount of a compound. Due to these complexities, it is hard to recommend a single concentration that is safe in every situation. Producers are encouraged to consult their veterinarian, nutritionist and provincial livestock specialists when interpreting water test results. While cattle can often tolerate or adapt to certain factors that reduce water quality, periodic testing of the water will assist with identifying the factors and indicate levels that may be problematic. HOW TO TEST WATER 1. FIND A LABORATORY • Use a local or regional lab that offers water testing. Consult the Water Lab List to find one in your area. 2. COLLECT A SAMPLE • Use a clean, sealable container. Generally, a 1L sample is collected, but some labs provide specific containers and collection instructions. Be sure to clearly label the sample. Date, locations, and sources type at minimum. • Obtain samples from the location where cattle actually drink, not from a tap or storage tank (unless this is the location they drink from). For dugouts or ponds, this is generally 1-2 feet below the surface and 2-3 feet from the edge. For wells or troughs, ensure a fresh sample by running water for 1-2 minutes before sampling. The laboratory can help clarify sampling location based on the desired tests and water system type. • Avoid contamination with dirt and debris when sampling. 3. SUBMIT TO THE LABORATORY • Many labs have specific storage instructions for samples, like keeping the water at a specific temperature (e.g. 1-4°C, which might require a cooler and ice packs) or submitting within a certain time frame (e.g. within 24 hrs – especially for bacterial testing). 4. INTERPRET THE RESULTS • Work with advisors and use the Water Results Interpretation Guide to understand your results and take action. Water Management for Beef Cattle - BeefResearch.ca Some additional water management links provided by the Beef Cattle Research Council: • Water Management Resources - BeefResearch.ca • Reservoirs of Resilience: Building Reliable Stock Water Systems Through Years of Drought - BeefResearch.ca • Fences, Filters and Eavestroughs: Innovative Water Initiatives to Improve Herd Heal - BeefResearch.ca • Pooling Resources: Community Pasture Upgrades Water Systems for Healthier Beef Cattle - BeefResearch.ca • Water Stewardship: A Ranching Family’s Approach to Conservation and Changing Landscapes - BeefResearch.ca • Practical Approaches for Managing Stock Water - Beef Research Call: 1-866-260-7985 x252 or mail your order to: 90 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, ON N1H 1B2 Name: Tel: Address: City: Prov: PC: Payment: Cheque Visa MasterCard AMEX Card #: Exp: V-code: Name on Card (print): Signature: 3 digits on back of card How to calculate total: Total cost of books + shipping. 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